Creamy Pumpkin Breastmilk Pasta

Well here we are again with another family favorite. It is delicious, healthy, and is another excellent way to utilize some of your soon-to-expire breastmilk. There should NEVER be a reason to toss out your hard work, it can be used for too many things! Another underrated ingredient that I LOVE cooking with is pumpkin. Cakes, muffins, french toast, pancakes, pastas....I want it all! Utilizing pumpkin in this recipe is not only delicious, but it is a great way to sneak in a healthy vegetable for those struggling with some picky eaters. I hope you enjoy this little gem!

Ingredients:

1. 4-6 ounces of breastmilk
2. 2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
3. 2 cups pure pumpkin puree
4. 12 ounces whole wheat pasta
5. 2 tablespoons butter
6. 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
7. 1/2 cup pasta water
8. salt and pepper to taste

Note: Adults, if you are into spice, feel free to top with red pepper flakes or my personal favorite, Camp Scoville spices!! They have an amazing variety of spicy seasonings that are both healthy and truly addicting. I use it on everything!

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the pasta. I ALWAYS prefer to cook it al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, get a saucepan (nonstick) and slowly heat the butter and garlic together. Be very careful not to burn it!!
3. Once aromatic and the garlic becomes translucent (NOT burned!), add in the pumpkin puree and mix together until combined.
4. Drain your pasta, and reserve about 1/2 cup of the water it was cooking in.
5. Add this water to the pumpkin butter mixture, and combine.
6. Next, add the breastmilk and cheese to the mixture until the cheese has fully melted and all has become a creamy sauce.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste (omit if you prefer)
8. Add the sauce to the cooked pasta and combine.
9. Serve to your littles and enjoy! Add extra parmesan on top, pepper flakes, and Camp Scoville for those who like to kick it up a notch. You're welcome!

There you have it. Simple, healthy, and perfect for busy mamas with things to do. Always remember, don't waste your milk! It is liquid gold and does not belong in the trash.